The Revolution of RestSample

REST AS STRENGTH

What if I told you that rest makes you stronger? Would you believe me?

In today's hustle culture, the value of rest is often overshadowed by our endless pursuit of productivity and success. We think that if we keep pushing, keep striving, and keep accomplishing bigger and better things, we’ll show the world (and ourselves) how truly strong we are.

Unfortunately, the truth is that many of us are never satisfied. Our accomplishments are never enough, and so we find ourselves in an endless cycle of driving hard to produce more and more, often to the point of burnout. In our attempt to demonstrate our superhuman power, we end up settling for a superficial ‘strength’ that leaves us empty and depleted.

This is not God's plan for us. Drawing from rest to be renewed in strength is the only way to counter this chaos.

As we continue this series on rest, I pray you have begun to reframe your thoughts around rest and allowed yourself to consider a fresh, new perspective.

Jesus knew this life would lead us to be weary, depleted, dry, and burned out. In Matthew 11:28-30, he gently invites us to let him carry the load, to rest, to learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I love how the Message translation describes the results. "Get away with me and you’ll recover your life… Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Our bodies are intricate designs, divinely created to do incredible things. Part of our design is that our bodies require rest for recovery and repair. Rest plays a vital role in muscle repair, tissue regeneration, and immune system fortification. Quality sleep, relaxation, and restful periods allow our bodies to heal, recover, and ultimately become stronger.

This is God’s design for our body, mind, and soul.

Embracing rest as strength will lead us into a deeper connection with God and a strengthened spiritual life. Jesus himself emphasized the importance of rest on the Sabbath, setting aside a day, just as God did after creation. Rest allows us to recalibrate our focus on him. It's a time to worship, to reflect, to spend quality time with both Creator and creation.

As you continue to do this transformative work with rest, may I also encourage you to shed the feelings of guilt that may surface within you?

Because society glorifies busyness, work, and hurry, many of us are prone to feelings of fear and guilt as we prioritize rest. Don’t listen to the lies! Instead, understand that rest is a fundamental pillar of your well-being. By reframing rest as strength, we empower ourselves to embrace it... without reservation and apology.

Make no mistake: Rest is our superpower.

REFLECTION:

1. Are you feeling burned out, exhausted, or fatigued on a deep level?
2. What factors have contributed to any of the above feelings in your life?
3. How will you respond to the burnout, exhaustion, or fatigue this week?

GUIDED PRAYER:

"Rest as Strength" was written by Cheryl Nembhard.